The main benefits of using pumped hydroelectric energy storage (PHES) with renewable energy sources are:
1. Energy Balancing and Grid Stability
- Pumped hydro storage can balance the variability of renewable energy like wind and solar by storing excess electricity generated during periods of low demand or high renewable output and releasing it when demand is high or renewable generation is low, thus smoothing supply fluctuations.
- It provides ancillary grid services including frequency control, voltage stabilization, spinning reserves, and black start capability, enhancing overall grid reliability and stability.
2. Large-Scale, Long-Duration Storage Capacity
- PHES systems typically offer hours of hydraulic reservoir storage (6-20 hours or more), allowing for the storage of substantial amounts of energy to be dispatched at peak demand times.
- Their large capacity makes them suitable to firm up intermittent renewable sources and provide backup when solar and wind are not available.
3. Supports Increased Renewable Integration
- By storing excess renewable energy that would otherwise be curtailed, pumped hydro allows more renewables to be integrated into the grid without wasting generated electricity.
- This capacity to buffer supply and demand fluctuations helps ensure a higher penetration of variable renewables like wind and solar on the grid.
4. Environmental and Economic Advantages
- Closed-loop pumped hydro systems (not connected to natural bodies of water) have among the lowest greenhouse gas emission impacts compared to other large-scale storage technologies.
- PHES reduces reliance on fossil fuel power plants by firming renewable energy output, directly contributing to emissions reductions and net-zero targets.
- Economically, investments in pumped hydro storage can lower overall energy system costs significantly (e.g., up to £690 million/year savings projected in the UK by 2050) by providing flexibility and reducing the need for expensive peaking plants.
In summary, pumped hydroelectric energy storage provides firm, flexible, and environmentally friendly energy storage that complements renewable generation, stabilizes the grid, lowers costs, and enables higher shares of clean energy.
Original article by NenPower, If reposted, please credit the source: https://nenpower.com/blog/what-are-the-main-benefits-of-using-pumped-hydroelectric-energy-storage-with-renewable-energy-sources/
